This site is a tribute to Michael Darch .
Michael was first diagnosed with mouth cancer in September 2018 just after he retired. He underwent 7 weeks of radiotherapy and 2 rounds of chemo in the Bexley Wing at St James’. This diagnosis and treatment meant Michael was unable to do three things he loved; eating, drinking and talking!
For the next 18 months, Michael kept himself busy by learning to play bridge, volunteering at the Settle railway shop and reconnecting with old friends from school and university on various WhatsApp groups.
On October 9 2020, 2 years after the initial diagnosis, we were given the devastating news that the cancer had returned and spread to his brain and lungs. This was followed by Gamma Knife Therapy, another 3 rounds of chemo and more radiotherapy, all in Leeds again.
By February 2021, Michael was down to 55kg and clearly his body could no longer cope with the treatment. He spent 6 weeks in the Bexley Wing at St James’ having palliative care and moved to Craven Nursing Home in March to be nearer to home and easier for us to visit.
He died in Airedale Hospital, Skipton on Saturday 8 May with us by his side.
Michael was a wonderful husband to Leonie, proud father to Laura and Sophie and a good friend to those who knew him. He will be greatly missed.
As he spent so much time at St James’ receiving such excellent care and treatment we thought it would be a fitting tribute to his memory to raise money to benefit others in a similar situation.
Thank you x
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